Title: 4 Steps to Christian Inspiration Word Count: 580 Summary: Christian inspiration is a little-studied topic and yet can have an enormous impact on our effectiveness as Christians. Keywords: christian inspiration, christian Article Body: Many times we study how to do things faster and better but we skip the essential step of inspiration. When we are inspired by the Holy Spirit we have a wealth of ability with which to work. When we are empowered by Christian inspiration we “can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth us” (Phil. 4:13, KJV). We read in Job: “But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.” (Job 32:8, KJV) One of the most important things to remember as we study Christian inspiration is that when we are inspired we must use our inspiration for the glory of God and to do His will. Jesus tells us: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt. 6:33, KJV) We must first seek His righteousness and His will before we will be able to use His inspiration for both His glory and our growth and benefit. There are 4 steps to achieving success through Christian inspiration: 1. Recognize that everything we have is from God and that everything we do should be to glorify the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. God gives us His Spirit and His inspiration to be used for His glory. Job says of God (the Ancient): “With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding. With him is wisdom and strength, he hath counsel and understanding.” (Job 12:12-13, KJV) God holds all the wisdom in the earth and only He can dispense of it. 2. Ask God for the inspiration that you need. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matt. 7:7, KJV) Before we can be given the wisdom of God and His inspiration, we must first ask Him for it. James tells us: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. (James 1:5, KJV) 3. Purpose to use the wisdom and Christian inspiration He gives you for His glory and His purpose. Once we are given wisdom and inspiration, we have a tremendous responsibility to use it prudently. Jesus Himself tells us: “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” (Lk. 12:48b, KJV). 4. Practice using Christian inspiration. Once you have Christian inspiration, you must practice using it. So often we are given a gift and we do not use it. Just like any skill we might learn, Christian inspiration is most effectively used long-term when we daily accept it. When you are inspired or have an inspired thought about something you have been struggling with, write it down, or immediately put it into action. When you use the Christian inspiration you are given, you likely place yourself in an ideal position to receive future inspiration. Now you have 4 basic steps to Christian inspiration. When you consistently apply these four steps, and spend time with the Lord Jesus Christ Himself on a daily basis, you will be able to tap into a nearly limitless supply of inspiration. Take the time to study the accompanying Bible verses in this article, and meditate on the Word of God daily. You have my permission to reprint and distribute this article as long as it is distributed in its entirety, including all links. © Sean Mize 2006